Plan Ahead for Gardiner Delays

A 2013 environmental assessment of Toronto’s Gardiner Expressway recommended the reconfiguration of some exit ramps in the downtown core. Acting on this report, the City of Toronto is now proceeding with demolishing the eastbound ramp from the Gardiner Expressway to York Street, Bay Street, and Yonge Street.

The ramp will be permanently closed as of Monday, April 17, 2017 at 5:00 a.m. It will be torn down and replaced by a shorter ramp at Lower Simcoe Street. The project is expected to be completed by January 2018.

During construction, motorists will still be able to access downtown by exiting the eastbound Gardiner Expressway at the Jamison Avenue, Spadina Avenue and Jarvis Street ramps.

The westbound lanes of Lake Shore Boulevard and the Gardiner Expressway will not be affected by this construction.

Work will occur Monday through Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. – with periods of continuous overnight work where applicable. The expedited work is part of a comprehensive congestion management strategy and is meant to reduce the duration of construction time and interference of motorists.

More information about the ramp closures and construction plans are available on the City of Toronto’s website.

In order to maintain optimal traffic flow in the area, traffic signal timing on alternate routes will be adjusted to minimize congestion. Signage will be installed to advise motorists of the ongoing work.

CAA reminds all motorists that despite all efforts to assist with mitigating traffic congestion, road users utilizing the eastbound Gardiner Expressway should anticipate delays and are advised to plan their routes accordingly and allow for extra travel time.